Jambay Lhakhang Drup is one of the most popular festivals in Bumthang. It has a significant place in Bhutanese culture and psyche as; firstly, it is a tribute to the honor of Guru Rimpoche, a saint who introduced the Tantric form of Buddhism in Bhutan. Secondly, this festival commemorates the establishment of the Jambay Lhakhang temple in the 7th century. During this festival, a variety of traditional and mask dances are performed and each dance bears significant meaning. However, the highlight of Jambay Lhakhang Drup remains the fire ceremony named ‘Mewang’ and the religious dance known as ‘Tercham’. Apart from these, the other activities include- a famous drum beat dance, a clown dance called Dola Pangtoy Shazam, Raksha Mangcham a dance symbolizing life after death, and many more. With the proceedings of the events, this festival captures the attention of the onlookers and creates a magnificent spectacle.
Day 1: Paro–Thimphu:
Arrive at Paro International Airport.
Travel to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. En route, visit Tachog Monastery.
Afternoon, visit National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Kuenselphodrang Park, and Traditional Handmade Paper Factory.
Accommodation: Hotel Tara Phendeyling (or similar)
Day 2: Thimphu
Hike to Cheri Monastery.
Afternoon, visit Takin Park, Centenary Farmers’ Market, Institute for Traditional Arts and Crafts, and the majestic Tashichhodzong which houses the office of His Majesty the King.
Accommodation: Hotel Tara Phendeyling (or similar)
Day 3: Thimphu–Punakha:
Travel towards Punakha.
On the way, stop at Dochula pass and visit the 108 Victory Stupas. Then visit Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple.
Afternoon, visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong, the longest suspension bridge, and Galem’s house.
Accommodation: Zhingkham Resort (or similar)
Day 4: Punakha-Bumthang
Leave Punakha for Bumthang.
En route, stop at the reconstruction site of Wangduepodrang dzong.
Then stop at the Trongsa Dzong and the museum at Ta Dzong.
Our highest driving point will be a mountain pass- Pelela at 3140 meters and Yotongla pass. From there we gradually take a descent to the floor of Bumthang valley which is often filled with dense fog.
Overnight stay in Bumthang
Day 5: Bumthang
Today, we will attend the Jambay Lhakhang Drup. It is a unique and very spectacular festival. It is one of the oldest temples built in the 7th century.
Afternoon, you will be visiting Tamzhing Monastery and Jambay Lhakhang.
Ramble through the small Chamkhar town in the evening.
Overnight stay in Bumthang
Day 6: Bumthang-Paro
Travel back to Paro.
En route, if time permits, we will visit Semtokha Dzong-the oldest dzong in the country.
Overnight stay at Bhutan Mandala Resort
Day 7: Paro-Taksang Monastery
Hike to Taksang Monastery or the Tiger’s Nest.
Afternoon, visit to the National Museum, Paro Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and one of the nearby homestays to have a hot-stone bath.
Overnight stay at Bhutan Mandala Resort
Day 8: Departure
Fly back to your country.